Discipleship Practices for Lent

This season of Lent (which starts on Ash Wednesday, February 13) provides a wonderful opportunity to develop, modify, or expand a current practice of discipleship, or discover and incorporate a new practice. Read Janné’s story and consider incorporating some of the following practices, and may you find renewed joy in your journey through Lent.

Growing up, I had a large number of friends from different faith communities who observed Lent. I was aware they gave something up during this time, but I had little or no understanding of the significance and meaning of Lent. In recent years, I have come to a greater appreciation for the practices of Lent, the rich symbolism, and the opportunity for intentional encounter and transformation. I have discovered abundant blessings in the journey from grief to joy, human weakness to forgiveness, and concern for self to social justice.

In his reflections on Lent, Don Compier affirms, “Lent is about being in the presence of God, with greater awareness and intentionality than usual.” From the discipline of personal reflection and repentance, through the desert of discovery and renewal, to the reordering of priorities and reconciling relationships with God, others and creation; the journey of Lent represents the fundamental nature of disciple formation.

This season of Lent provides a wonderful opportunity to develop, modify, or expand a current practice of discipleship, or discover and incorporate a new practice. Consider some of these practices, explore the many current practices on the Disciple Formation Guide, or create a new practice. May you find renewed joy in your journey through Lent.